Albert Maersk named in Mumbai as Maersk expands green shipping efforts
INDIA – Maersk officially named its newest dual-fuel methanol container vessel, Albert Maersk, in Mumbai as part of its ongoing efforts to promote low-emission shipping.
The vessel is the eleventh in Maersk’s fleet that can operate on methanol, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk, hosted the naming ceremony, which saw attendance from Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, along with other government officials, diplomats, and Maersk employees.
Sonowal highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “It is a privilege for India to host the naming of this advanced dual-fuel vessel. With demand for green vessels rising, India has the potential to become a major producer and supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels.”
He noted that Maersk’s investment in green fuel production would support India’s transition toward a more sustainable maritime sector.
The naming of Albert Maersk reflects the growing collaboration between India and Maersk in advancing alternative fuel solutions.
Clerc acknowledged India’s rapid economic growth, highlighting its strong manufacturing sector, expanding e-commerce industry, and increasing exports.
He stated that Maersk plans to explore opportunities in alternative fuel sourcing, ship repairs, and shipbuilding, aligning with the Indian government’s efforts to promote the shipping sector.
Expanding investments in India
Alongside its focus on sustainable shipping, Maersk is increasing investments in India’s ports and logistics sector.
Clerc announced plans to invest $5 billion in port and terminal upgrades and landside infrastructure. “Our footprint in India includes two APM Terminals operations in Mumbai and Pipavav, handling over three million containers annually, 26 warehouses spanning 350,000 sq. m., and a distribution network covering more than 80 percent of India’s pin codes.”
Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, underscored Maersk’s commitment to improving efficiency. “We aim to reduce logistics costs by offering customers all supply chain services in one place—from transportation to port handling and warehousing.”
Svendsen also confirmed a US$2 billion investment to expand and renew Pipavav Port, a key hub for Maersk’s India operations. The investment will support dredging to accommodate larger vessels, strengthening India’s position in global trade.
Commitment to low-emission shipping
Albert Maersk is part of a series of 18 large dual-fuel methanol vessels set for delivery in 2024 and 2025. Built at Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea, the vessel has a capacity of 16,592 TEUs.
Maersk remains committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. The use of bio- and e-methanol can reduce emissions by at least 65 percent compared to conventional fossil fuels.
Maersk has also urged the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) member states to introduce strong regulations that would drive the shipping industry toward climate targets.
The company believes that IMO policies should be fuel-agnostic, allowing for a diverse range of low-emission options and closing the price gap between fossil and alternative fuels
Christopher Cook, Maersk’s managing director for South Asia, spoke about the company’s broader logistics strategy. “We are expanding into tier 2 and tier 3 cities and exploring air freight and green fuel solutions to strengthen logistics in India.”
The naming of Albert Maersk marks another step in Maersk’s sustainability efforts, reinforcing cooperation between India and the global shipping industry to reduce emissions and modernize port infrastructure.
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